Neil Shefferd

The English Defence League is to protest in Aylesbury in October, five years after they last held a demonstration in the town.

The far right group are planning action on Saturday October 10.

A joint statement from all three councils said: “Aylesbury Vale District Council, Aylesbury Town Council and Bucks County Council wish to make it clear that they do not welcome the EDL’s visit to Aylesbury or any other place in the Vale and are disappointed that they have chosen to come here.

“None of the councils or the police have the power to ban the demonstration, which is expected to take place on 10 October.

“The EDL has the right to peaceful demonstration and the police have the duty to facilitate this.

“Our collective focus is on ensuring that the demonstration causes minimal disruption to businesses, residents and visitors and that the town remains open for business as usual.

“Many people may remember the previous EDL visit to Aylesbury in 2010.

“More recent demonstrations held elsewhere in the country have passed without incident.

“Town centres have continued to trade as normal and that is our intention for Aylesbury if the demonstration is confirmed.

“Discussions will be held with the EDL to agree the arrangements for the demonstration and the needs of local people and businesses will be at the forefront of these.”

Thames Valley Police has confirmed it is also working alongside organisers ahead of the demonstration.

A spokesman said: “Our aim is always to ensure that the impact on local people, businesses and visitors is minimised.

“Discussions are being held with the EDL to agree the arrangements for the demonstration and the needs of local people and businesses will be at the forefront of these.